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Explore the Central Post Office's beautiful French colonial architecture, take in the historical significance of the building, and visit the small museum inside. You can also send postcards from the post office to friends or family, making it a memorable experience.
The Central Post Office, located in Ho Chi Minh City, was built in the late 19th century and designed by a French architect. It was the first post office during the French colonial period and is full of French style. Today, the Central Post Office is a famous landmark in Ho Chi Minh City, visited by many people every day.
The hall is richly decorated, with a dome that exudes a classical atmosphere. A large portrait of Ho Chi Minh hangs in the center of the wall at the end of the hall, and taking a photo with him is a popular choice for many tourists.
Business service counters are located on both sides of the spacious hall, and in the middle, from the outside to the inside, there are circular benches, souvenir counters and long writing desks.
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended play time: 30 minutes to 1 hour
free
Monday - Friday: 7:30-19:00
Saturday - Sunday: 8:00-18:00
The Central Post Office in Ho Chi Minh City, built between 1886 and 1891, is one of the most famous landmarks of the French colonial period in Vietnam. It reflects the blend of French architecture with local culture and is an operational post office to this day.
The Central Post Office is located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, near Notre-Dame Cathedral. It's easily accessible by taxi, bus, or on foot if you're already in the city center. The closest bus stop is also nearby.
The post office is open daily from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. The best times to visit are in the early morning or late afternoon when the crowds are fewer.
There is no entrance fee to visit the Central Post Office. It's free to explore, though you might want to bring some money if you wish to send postcards or buy souvenirs from the small shops inside.
No booking is necessary as the Central Post Office is free to enter and is open to the public at all times during operating hours.
You can fully explore the Central Post Office in about 30 to 45 minutes, depending on your interest in the historical aspects and architecture.
The must-see highlights include the grand interior, with its high vaulted ceilings, historical maps, and antique phone booths. Don’t miss the large portrait of Ho Chi Minh and the intricate architecture throughout the building.
Guided tours may be available, but it's best to check with the local tour providers. Audio guides are not typically available at the Central Post Office, but you can explore independently with informational pamphlets available in English.
The best spots for photos include the grand interior of the post office, the old telephone booths, and the exterior facade of the building. The front of the post office also offers a great view of the nearby Notre-Dame Cathedral.
Start by admiring the exterior of the building, then enter through the main doors. Take time to explore the central hall and the walls adorned with maps and portraits. Finally, you can head to the souvenir shops to purchase postcards or memorabilia.
There are no night visits or light shows at the Central Post Office. However, the building is beautifully lit at night, offering a different charm from the day-time atmosphere.
The Central Post Office is often busy during midday and on weekends. To avoid crowds, visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon on weekdays.
The Central Post Office has basic facilities including public toilets. There are small shops where you can buy souvenirs, postcards, and snacks, but there are no full-scale restaurants or water stations inside.
The Central Post Office is accessible to elderly visitors and children, though there may be some steps at the entrance. The building is generally wheelchair accessible, but the crowds can make navigation challenging at peak times.
Cash is commonly accepted for postal services and souvenirs. Credit cards are accepted in some shops, but it's best to carry cash for smaller purchases.
There are a few cafes and restaurants nearby, including "L'Usine" and "The Refinery," which serve both local and international cuisine. For a quick snack, you can also find small cafes around the post office.
There are some vegetarian and vegan options in the nearby restaurants, but halal options are limited in this area of Ho Chi Minh City.
Some of the closest hotels to the Central Post Office include "Hotel Continental Saigon" and "Caravelle Saigon." Both are located within a short walking distance of the post office.
Nearby attractions include the Notre-Dame Cathedral, Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica, Reunification Palace, and the War Remnants Museum. All of these can be visited in a single day trip.
There are souvenir shops inside the post office and nearby, offering postcards, stamps, keychains, and traditional Vietnamese crafts like lacquerware and silk scarves.
After visiting the Central Post Office, you can easily take a taxi, motorbike, or bus to continue your trip. The nearby Ben Thanh Market is also a popular next stop and is within walking distance.
